Pet clothing for a cause

A special canine clothing collaboration between three accomplished business founders is helping to raise funds for abused and neglected pets. Dame Denise L’estrange-Corbet, Julie Chapman, and Rachael Staples are creating custom pet apparel for dogs, designed by Mr Soft Top, to raise funds for Pet Refuge. Pet Refuge offers temporary shelter and care for pets […]

Pieces with personality

Express your personality by incorporating colourful appliances and accessories in your home. Here are a few suggestions to add colour and intrigue to your home, that you can change with different trends, or showcase your creative personality without having to consider a full renovation.

A lady of many talents Christine Hill

Like a fairy story is how Lady Christine Hill describes her life. In a rare interview, Lady Christine, the wife of Sir Michael Hill (jeweller) talks exclusively with Metropol writer Neville Idour about art, jewellery, and design. woman of many talents, Lady Christine Hill has for almost six decades been an integral part of the […]

Pops of green

One of the top interior design trends for 2023 is sustainability, and along with that comes the colours of nature. Green hues top the list of desirable colours, working well with neutrals and bolder choices. Earth-friendly green shades are being used as accents, and accessories, especially in bedrooms and living areas. Plants are an obvious […]

Lap up Kaikōura

Paua patties, delicious crayfish, and seals stretched out in the sun, first come to mind when thinking of Kaikōura. Eat Kaikōura’s name is all about food. In Te reo Māori – Kai means food and Kōura means crayfish. For those up for an adventure, you can go diving for crayfish and cook up an excellent […]

Winter wonderland

Shopping, spas, skiing – Hanmer Springs is within easy reach of Christchurch, offering all of the aforesaid activities and much more. Just 90 minutes from central Christchurch, this alpine village is an all-year-round destination, whether it’s for a day, a weekend, or a longer break. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming resort […]

Gardening with limited space

Whether you live in an apartment, have a small courtyard, or simply share your space with others, it doesn’t have to stop you from gardening. Here are some tips to help you garden in your small spaces: Choose compact and dwarf varieties Look for vegetable varieties specifically bred for small spaces or containers. These plants […]

Snow season splendour

Preparing for the snow season is a must. As winter approaches, getting kitted out becomes essential for embracing the powdered mountains, whether you’re going to take on skiing, snowboarding or a snow angel making day with family. First, a reliable waterproof and insulated jacket provides warmth and protection against the elements. Layering is key, so […]

Kaikōura a fascinating tapestry of history

Nestled between majestic mountains and the breathtaking South Pacific Ocean, the town of Kaikōura boasts a captivating history. From ancient Māori legends to the rise of whaling and its subsequent transformation into a world-renowned eco-tourism destination, Kaikōura’s story is one of resilience, cultural heritage, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Long before European settlers arrived, the Māori […]

Using tech to improve your garden

For those out there with green thumbs, but not much time on their hands, making the most of current technology can make gardening a great deal easier. You may have just moved into a newly built home, or feel the need to give your current garden a makeover. And you know what they say: planning […]